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World Leaders in 2025: The Oldest and Youngest Heads of State Around the Globe
As of 2025, the landscape of global leadership continues to be shaped by an intriguing mix of seasoned veterans and emerging youth. Here’s a detailed look at the world’s oldest and youngest leaders, highlighting the diverse dynamics in political longevity and generational change.
The Ten Oldest World Leaders in 2025
Paul Biya – Cameroon (92)
Leading the pack is Cameroon’s president, Paul Biya, who remains in office at the remarkable age of 92. Biya has been at the helm since 1982, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving heads of state. His tenure is marked by a complex legacy, blending stability with accusations of authoritarian rule, and ongoing debates about his influence over Cameroon’s future.
Mahmoud Abbas – Palestine (90)
At nearly a century old, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas continues to hold sway in the West Bank. Serving since 2005, Abbas’s leadership has faced numerous challenges, including political fragmentation and regional tensions, yet his resilience keeps him in power.
King Salman bin Abdulaziz – Saudi Arabia (90)
Saudi Arabia’s King Salman, aged 90, remains a central figure in Middle Eastern politics. Ascending to the throne in 2015, his influence extends through vast economic reforms and asserting regional dominance, guiding one of the world’s most influential monarchies.
Harald V – Norway (88)
Norwegian King Harald V embodies a steady monarchic presence, representing continuity and tradition in Scandinavia. While primarily a constitutional monarch with limited powers, his age reflects the enduring stability of Norway’s monarchy system.
Ali Khamenei – Iran (86)
The Supreme Leader of Iran, Ali Khamenei, continues to wield substantial influence over the country’s political and military spheres at 86. His longevity signifies the preservation of Iran’s theological-political order amid a shifting regional landscape.
Jean-Lucien Savi de Tové – Togo (86)
Togo’s President, Jean-Lucien Savi de Tové, enters his mid-80s as the nation’s senior leader. His leadership years have seen efforts towards political stability, although challenges remain in the West African republic.
Muhammad Yunus – Bangladesh (85)
Global social entrepreneur and Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, at 85, remains an inspiring figure in Bangladesh, advocating for social business and poverty alleviation, often stepping into a role that influences social policies rather than through official political office.
Peter Mutharika – Malawi (85)
Former Malawian President Peter Mutharika continues to have a presence in Malawi’s political scene at 85, contributing to ongoing discussions about governance and development in southeastern Africa.
Mishal Al-Ahmad – Kuwait (85)
Kuwait’s Crown Prince Mishal Al-Ahmad has held significant governing roles, preparing to assume leadership responsibilities as the Gulf state navigates regional geopolitics amid shifting alliances.
Michael D. Higgins – Ireland (84)
President Michael D. Higgins remains a respected figure in Ireland, known for his advocacy on social issues and cultural development, exemplifying a blend of seniority and active civic engagement.
The Youngest Heads of State in 2025
Gabriel Boric – Chile (39)
Chile’s President Gabriel Boric, at 39, represents a new wave of youthful leadership in Latin America. Coming into office in 2022, Boric embodies progressive ideals and is actively shaping Chile’s economic and social policies amid demands for reform.
Jakov Milatović – Montenegro (39)
Montenegro’s President Jakov Milatović also stands out as a youthful leader, guiding the Balkan nation through crucial economic transitions and addressing regional geopolitical challenges.
Daniel Noboa – Ecuador (38)
At only 38, Daniel Noboa has recently assumed leadership in Ecuador, navigating the country through political instability and economic reforms, symbolizing the emergence of a new generation of leaders in South America.
Ibrahim Traoré – Burkina Faso (38)
Burkina Faso’s Ibrahim Traoré is one of Africa’s youngest presidents, leading during a tumultuous period characterized by armed insurgencies and calls for regional security reforms.
An Ongoing Global Tapestry
These figures underscore a fascinating dichotomy: many of the world’s most senior leaders continue to shape national policies through decades of experience, while the youngest leaders bring fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to governance.
While age can influence decision-making styles and priorities, the effectiveness of leadership ultimately hinges on adaptability, vision, and the ability to connect with citizens across generations. The next few years will be pivotal in observing how these contrasting ages influence global politics, regional stability, and societal progress.
(Image source: Twitter/@kalshi)
Note: This comprehensive snapshot reflects the state of global leadership as of 2025, illustrating the wide age spectrum of the world’s politicians and monarchs.
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